Myths and Legends of the World

Neptune

In Roman mythology, Neptune was an early Italian water
deity
who became identified with the Greek god Poseidon after about 400
B
.
C
. Unlike Poseidon, who appeared in many Greek myths and legends, Neptune
played a relatively minor role in Roman mythology In ancient Roman art, he
is generally shown holding a
trident,
a traditional weapon of fishermen in the Mediterranean region.

Possibly called Nethunus by the Etruscans of ancient Italy, the early
Neptune was linked to freshwater rivers, lakes, and springs. After
identification with Poseidon, he also became the god of the sea. His wife,
Salacia, a goddess of springwater, became associated with Amphitrite, the
wife of Poseidon and queen of the sea.

deity
god or goddess

trident
three-pronged spear, similar to a pitchfork

patron
special guardian, protector, or supporter

The ancient Romans held an annual festival to honor Neptune in July, a
time when the hot, dry weather of Italy made water scarce. The purpose of
the festival was probably to appease the god and help ensure that water
would soon be abundant again. Closely associated with horses, as was
Poseidon, Neptune may also have been worshiped by the Romans as a god of
horses and
patron
of horse racing.

User Contributions:

Did you know that iin greek mythology neptune is Poseidon he is th egod of water and trustfully does his job. also in The Little Mermaid King Neptune is Ariels father and like a "god" of water so i think thats why the father in the little mermaid is named King Neptune

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